The Way Jill Duggar and Derick Dillard Honored Their Stillborn Daughter

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Jill (née Duggar) and husband Derick Dillard mournfully announced the burial of their stillborn daughter, Isla. The couple shared an emotional tribute via social media on April 23, four days after the service, expressing their enduring love for Isla.

In their heartfelt post, the former Counting On couple expressed, “Isla Marie, our baby girl, we will love you forever & hold you in our hearts until we hold you in heaven.” The shared images included a glimpse of the memorial service’s program, which provided insight into the significance behind their daughter’s name: Isla, meaning “devoted to God,” and Marie, signifying a “wished for child and beloved.”

Accompanying the program were photos of items meant for baby Isla, including clothes, books, teething rings, bottles, and toys, all displayed lovingly at the service.

Jill Duggar Dillard (L) and husband Derick Dillard visit “Extra” at their New York studios at H&M in Times Square on October 23, 2014 in New York City. The couple recently gave fans a look…


D Dipasupil/Getty Images for Extra

Earlier in the month, the former reality stars had shared the devastating news of their loss. Jill, 32, was four months pregnant and due in August when they discovered the tragedy of Isla’s death in utero. Their message highlighted their anticipation and love for their fourth child from the beginning, stating, “From the moment we found out we were pregnant, we couldn’t wait to meet our baby.” They also reflected on how the baby was already so cherished by her three older brothers, Israel, 9, Samuel, 6, and Frederick, 1, who were “so excited to introduce her to their world.”

The pair expressed their gratitude for the support and prayers as they navigate through their period of mourning, concluding, “We appreciate your prayers as we continue to grieve and heal from the loss of our little Isla Marie.”

Family and friends were quick to leave their condolences on the post. “Sweet little Isla will be missed,” her sister Jinger Duggar expressed, while cousin Amy King commended the “beautiful name and meaning” of Isla.

Fans of the couple were also sharing their sympathy. “The little books and toys just broke my heart. I’m so sorry you’re going through this devastating loss. Praying for your sweet family and healing for all of your hearts ❤️,” commented one user. “A beautiful way to honor your baby. I’m so sorry. 💞,” said another.

Jill and Derick, 35, who married in June 2014 and started their family the following year, have previously experienced the pain of loss with a miscarriage between their second and third children, naming their late baby boy River Bliss.